With the goal of teaching young people across New York State about the way government works, and their crucial part in it, Assemblyman William Colton (D—Gravesend, Bensonhurst, Bath Beach and Dyker Heights) has introduced legislation that would mandate civics education for students in ninth through 12^th grade.

The Next-Gen Civics Act (A09298) would require New York State high schools to provide their students with civics education, in order to encourage young people to become engaged in the public sphere, to learn about issues and think critically about them, and to vote, when they are able.

“Our students are studying important subjects, from technology to mathematics to history, but there is, sadly, a dearth of programs that promote civic engagement, which is crucial in a democracy,” said Assemblyman Colton. “This legislation would mandate that schools provide the students in their charge with an understanding of how government works, and give them insights into policy, and the role of the general public in maintaining and strengthening our democratic form of government, which has been a model for nearly two and a half centuries. The more young people who become engaged, the stronger our republic will be, going forward.”

The bill, if enacted, would require schools across the state to offer students a semester-long civics class, separate from any other social studies class they may be taking, that features “a hands-on, project based curriculum” that would engage them through such activities as mock elections, community projects and policy simulations, providing them with both foundational knowledge and practical skills that could serve them far into the future. Encouraging students to register to vote as they approach their 18^th birthday would also be part of the curriculum.

“Over the recent past, there has been a decline in interest and participation in civic activity by young people who don’t understand that they can have a significant impact,” said Assemblyman Colton. “I believe that providing them with the tools they need to understand the importance of getting involved, will pay dividends long into the future, as our young people make their voices heard.”